Last Panto in Little Grimley

The Little Grimley plays by David Tristram always have audiences in fits of laughter and this production by The Pierrot Players did not disappoint. The rapport between the four actors was excellent with quick, witty one-liners and many tongue twisters delivered with good diction and pace. The actors were superb within their individual roles and gave strong, confident performances with a complicated plot and so many funny lines.

Little Grimley’s drama group is run by a few, but very dedicated, members. John Varlow was perfect as Gordon who has many roles within the drama group: Chairman, director, script writer and actor. Rachael Lilley was spot-on as Joyce. She is not all that bright but has lots of enthusiasm and tries her best to be a good treasurer and actor. Andrea Goslin, with her perfect facial expression and characterisation, plays the role of Margaret who is the leading lady in all Little Grimley’s productions. She is also the receiver of disparaging remarks regarding her acting ability and the often-rude jokes from the laid-back set builder, Bernard - another good performance from David Colston.  

The only time the cast left the stage was for a costume change and while this was happening, two lovely ladies kept us entertained during the scene changes. They moved the props and furniture around the stage with such finesse - the whole thing was obviously well-rehearsed.

Their first play was “The Last Tango in Little Grimley” and it opened with a scene immediately recognisable as a committee meeting. The drama group is in dire need of cash to keep them afloat and various ideas are being thrown about, not all of which are practicable. Gordon came up with a sex comedy and this received a mixed reaction, especially from Margaret when it was suggested she could reveal part of her body minus some clothing. However, at the end of the day, “The Last Tango” was a great success, which enables them to produce their next production: “The Last Panto in Little Grimley”. Like the previous play, this had so many riotous scenes and dialogue all delivered at great speed. With all the cast dressed in panto costumes, including a handsome donkey, they eventually all ended up in a heap on the floor. One of my many favourite scenes was when the cast were trying to arrange a rehearsal night which everyone could attend. The only suitable time turned out to be the play’s opening night – too true!

To make these plays a success you need good direction with a first-class cast and technical team. Ian Stevenson must be congratulated on achieving a very good production and the applause at the end of the evening was well earned.

Thank you for the invite and warm welcome and for keeping us entertained and laughing all evening.

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